Sandakan City Guide (Malaysia, 2026)

Backpacking in Sandakan
👍 Recommendedcity ranked #12
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated October 15, 2026

Most people only realize after leaving Sandakan that it’s the cheapest, easiest launchpad for serious Bornean wildlife—Sepilok, Kinabatangan River, and the rainforest lodges all radiate out from here like spokes. Sandakan sits on the northeast coast of Sabah, in Malaysian Borneo, facing the Sulu Sea. As a backpacker base it’s scruffy but practical: walkable center, low guesthouse prices, good food courts, a few low-key bars, and sights like the Agnes Keith House and the Sandakan Memorial Park if you like history. It’s quieter and rougher around the edges than Kota Kinabalu, with fewer hostels and less nightlife, but it feels safe, unpretentious, and very focused on the “real Borneo” just beyond the city limits.

Discover everything you want to know in the 📖 Malaysia Travel Guide.

Best time to go: March - September
Population: 396,000 [sabah.gov.my]
Daily cost: USD20 to 40

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✨ Why go?
Ranked #12 city in MalaysiaThe unique appeal for travelers

Sandakan is a strategic basecamp for backpackers exploring Borneo. It offers a blend of affordability and accessibility that makes it appealing. The hostels here are budget-friendly and often buzzing with fellow travelers, creating a vibrant community atmosphere. You’ll find a variety of local food options that won’t break the bank, from street stalls to cozy cafes, perfect for fueling your adventures.

The city is walkable, allowing you to soak in the local vibe without the hassle of transport. While nightlife isn’t wild, you can enjoy laid-back bars where you can swap stories with other travelers. Sandakan also serves as a gateway for day trips to iconic spots, making it a practical choice for those wanting to explore without the hassle of constant travel.

If you’re looking for a place … read more 👉

Sandakan is a strategic basecamp for backpackers exploring Borneo. It offers a blend of affordability and accessibility that makes it appealing. The hostels here are budget-friendly and often buzzing with fellow travelers, creating a vibrant community atmosphere. You’ll find a variety of local food options that won’t break the bank, from street stalls to cozy cafes, perfect for fueling your adventures.

The city is walkable, allowing you to soak in the local vibe without the hassle of transport. While nightlife isn’t wild, you can enjoy laid-back bars where you can swap stories with other travelers. Sandakan also serves as a gateway for day trips to iconic spots, making it a practical choice for those wanting to explore without the hassle of constant travel.

If you’re looking for a place to recharge and plan your next move, Sandakan fits the bill. But if you’re after non-stop action, it might be best as a short stop on your journey.

💡 HighlightsDon't-miss highlights and experiences

Sandakan Memorial Park — The clearest, most immediate place to understand Sandakan’s WWII tragedy: the former POW camp, well-interpreted grounds and quiet paths make history tangible and respectful.
Agnes Keith House — The restored home of the American author Agnes Newton Keith; it’s a compact museum that gives a vivid, personal view of colonial life and the town’s pre-war social scene.
Puu Jih Shih Temple — A photogenic Buddhist temple on a coastal hill with pagodas, sea views and ornate statues; great for sunset and to see how Chinese and Buddhist traditions touch Sandakan’s waterfront life.
St. Michael’s and All Angels Church — One of Borneo’s older Anglican churches with a wartime history and a peaceful graveyard; meaningful for history buffs and anyone who likes quiet, atmospheric

… read more 👉

Sandakan Memorial Park — The clearest, most immediate place to understand Sandakan’s WWII tragedy: the former POW camp, well-interpreted grounds and quiet paths make history tangible and respectful.
Agnes Keith House — The restored home of the American author Agnes Newton Keith; it’s a compact museum that gives a vivid, personal view of colonial life and the town’s pre-war social scene.
Puu Jih Shih Temple — A photogenic Buddhist temple on a coastal hill with pagodas, sea views and ornate statues; great for sunset and to see how Chinese and Buddhist traditions touch Sandakan’s waterfront life.
St. Michael’s and All Angels Church — One of Borneo’s older Anglican churches with a wartime history and a peaceful graveyard; meaningful for history buffs and anyone who likes quiet, atmospheric places.
Sandakan Central Market & Fish Market — The sensory heart of town: fresh seafood, local produce, dried goods and street snacks. It’s the best place to watch daily life and try cheap, honest food.
Sandakan Harbour Board Building & Waterfront Boardwalk — Old colonial architecture meets working harbour; walk the esplanade, watch fishermen, and get a feel for Sandakan’s maritime identity.
Kampung Sim-Sim (Stilt Water Village) — A genuine coastal stilt village on the township’s edge where you can see stilt-house living, local boat activity and community life up close—bring a camera and respect people’s space.
English Tea House & Restaurant — A restored colonial-style spot near the water that’s useful for a slower, scenic break; it’s touristy but gives a pleasant view and a taste of Sandakan’s colonial layers.
Sandakan Heritage Trail — A short, walkable route through the town’s historic nodes (colonial buildings, temples, markets and memorials); the trail strings together context and stories you’d miss hopping between sights.
Sandakan Central Mosque (Masjid Bandaraya) — An important local mosque and a window into the city’s Muslim community life; worth visiting outside prayer times to appreciate architecture and local rhythms.

A few excellent day trips just outside Sandakan are Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, the Rainforest Discovery Centre, Labuk Bay proboscis-monkey sanctuary and Selingan (Turtle) Island — my personal favorite is Sepilok Orangutan Centre.

Spotted a mistake or missing something? Contact us.

🏘️ NeighborhoodsUnderstanding the local layout

Sandakan offers a unique blend of culture and nature, making it a prime spot for backpackers seeking authentic experiences. Here’s how the neighborhoods stack up:

Central Sandakan: This is the heartbeat of the city. You’ll find budget hostels and local eateries lining the streets. The vibe is bustling, with easy access to markets and shops. Walkability is high, making it perfect for short stays. Nightlife is low-key, but you can find a few bars to unwind after a day of exploring.

Sim Sim Village: A waterfront area that feels like stepping into a different world. It’s quieter, with stilt houses and local seafood restaurants. Ideal for those wanting a more laid-back experience. Transport options are limited, so it’s best for longer stays where you can soak in the local culture.

Sepilok: … read more 👉

Sandakan offers a unique blend of culture and nature, making it a prime spot for backpackers seeking authentic experiences. Here’s how the neighborhoods stack up:

Central Sandakan: This is the heartbeat of the city. You’ll find budget hostels and local eateries lining the streets. The vibe is bustling, with easy access to markets and shops. Walkability is high, making it perfect for short stays. Nightlife is low-key, but you can find a few bars to unwind after a day of exploring.

Sim Sim Village: A waterfront area that feels like stepping into a different world. It’s quieter, with stilt houses and local seafood restaurants. Ideal for those wanting a more laid-back experience. Transport options are limited, so it’s best for longer stays where you can soak in the local culture.

Sepilok: Famous for its orangutan sanctuary, this area is a must-visit. It’s a bit further from the city center, but the natural beauty is worth it. Accommodations range from budget to mid-range. Perfect for nature lovers and those planning longer stays, as you’ll want time to explore the surrounding rainforest.

Sandakan Harbour Square: A newer development with a mix of shops and eateries. It’s a hub for transport, making it easy to venture out. The vibe is modern, catering to both backpackers and tourists. Great for short stays, especially if you want quick access to tours and activities.

⌛️ 1 dayHow to make the most of one day

Sandakan, Malaysia, is a city where nature and history collide in a vibrant tapestry of experiences. Known as the gateway to Borneo’s wildlife, it offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. You can explore lush rainforests, visit historical sites, and indulge in local cuisine—all in one day.

Start your morning at the Sandakan Central Market. The air is thick with the scent of spices and fresh produce. Grab a traditional breakfast of nasi lemak from a local stall. The coconut rice paired with sambal and fried anchovies is a must-try. After fueling up, stroll over to the nearby Agnes Keith House. This colonial-era home, once inhabited by an American author, offers a glimpse into the past and stunning views of the bay.

In the afternoon, head to the Sepilok Orangutan … read more 👉

Sandakan, Malaysia, is a city where nature and history collide in a vibrant tapestry of experiences. Known as the gateway to Borneo’s wildlife, it offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. You can explore lush rainforests, visit historical sites, and indulge in local cuisine—all in one day.

Start your morning at the Sandakan Central Market. The air is thick with the scent of spices and fresh produce. Grab a traditional breakfast of nasi lemak from a local stall. The coconut rice paired with sambal and fried anchovies is a must-try. After fueling up, stroll over to the nearby Agnes Keith House. This colonial-era home, once inhabited by an American author, offers a glimpse into the past and stunning views of the bay.

In the afternoon, head to the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. It’s a bit of a drive, but witnessing these magnificent creatures up close is worth every minute. The center is dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating orphaned orangutans, and the feeding sessions are a heartwarming spectacle.

As evening approaches, return to Sandakan and explore the waterfront promenade. The sunset here is a showstopper, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. For dinner, dive into the local seafood at a nearby restaurant. Try the grilled fish, fresh from the sea, paired with a tangy dipping sauce.

If you have time, venture to the lesser-known Rainforest Discovery Centre. It’s a peaceful spot where you can walk among the treetops and soak in the sounds of the jungle. This day in Sandakan is not just about ticking boxes; it’s about immersing yourself in the rhythm of life here.

🌤️ When to go?Weather, crowds, and seasonal trade-offs

Topic: Weather - Sandakan’s tropical climate means it’s hot and humid year-round, but the dry season from March to September offers less rain, making trekking and wildlife spotting more enjoyable.
Topic: Temperature - Expect daily highs around 31-33°C (88-91°F) and lows near 24-26°C (75-79°F). The temperature doesn’t fluctuate much, so your timing won’t hinge on heat but on rain and humidity.
Topic: Daylight Hours - Roughly 12 hours of daylight year-round, sunrise around 6:30 AM and sunset near 6:30 PM, giving you a consistent window for activities without drastic seasonal shifts.
Topic: Crowds - Tourist numbers peak during the dry season, especially July and August, so expect more fellow backpackers and higher prices then. The wet season sees fewer visitors, offering solitude but with

… read more 👉

Topic: Weather - Sandakan’s tropical climate means it’s hot and humid year-round, but the dry season from March to September offers less rain, making trekking and wildlife spotting more enjoyable.
Topic: Temperature - Expect daily highs around 31-33°C (88-91°F) and lows near 24-26°C (75-79°F). The temperature doesn’t fluctuate much, so your timing won’t hinge on heat but on rain and humidity.
Topic: Daylight Hours - Roughly 12 hours of daylight year-round, sunrise around 6:30 AM and sunset near 6:30 PM, giving you a consistent window for activities without drastic seasonal shifts.
Topic: Crowds - Tourist numbers peak during the dry season, especially July and August, so expect more fellow backpackers and higher prices then. The wet season sees fewer visitors, offering solitude but with rain interruptions.
Topic: Seasonal Activities - Wildlife tours, especially for orangutans and proboscis monkeys, are best in the dry months when animals are more active and accessible. Rainy months can limit boat trips and jungle hikes.
Topic: Price Fluctuations - Accommodation and tours spike in the dry season due to demand. The wet season offers better deals but at the cost of potential weather disruptions.

Pro-tip: Aim for the shoulder months of March or September to balance fewer crowds, decent weather, and better prices—your sweet spot for a high-value Sandakan experience.

source: climatestotravel.comJANFEBMARAPRMAYJUNJULAUGSEPOCTNOVDEC

🛏️ Where to stay?Best areas and accommodation options

In Sandakan, the best zone for backpackers is the area around the town center, especially near the waterfront and Jalan Taman. This neighborhood strikes a smart balance between safety and social buzz, making it a natural magnet for budget travelers and solo adventurers. You’ll find a handful of hostels here, modest but clean, offering easy access to local eateries and markets where you can stretch your ringgit without sacrificing flavor or authenticity. Compared to the more residential or industrial outskirts, this central strip keeps you close to the pulse of the city’s daily rhythm without the … read more 👉

In Sandakan, the best zone for backpackers is the area around the town center, especially near the waterfront and Jalan Taman. This neighborhood strikes a smart balance between safety and social buzz, making it a natural magnet for budget travelers and solo adventurers. You’ll find a handful of hostels here, modest but clean, offering easy access to local eateries and markets where you can stretch your ringgit without sacrificing flavor or authenticity. Compared to the more residential or industrial outskirts, this central strip keeps you close to the pulse of the city’s daily rhythm without the noise or hassle of heavy traffic. It’s not a party hub, but the vibe is relaxed and welcoming, perfect for meeting fellow travelers or locals over a cheap kopi. If you stray too far into the suburbs or port areas, you lose that social edge and convenience, trading it for quiet that’s less practical for a short, dynamic stay.

Best hostels in Sandakan

Best quality hotels in Malaysia

🚌 Getting aroundMoving around without the hassle

Sandakan moves at its own pace—somewhere between the laid-back rhythm of a small town and the unpredictable pulse of a frontier hub. It’s not a place where you’ll find strict timetables etched in stone, but neither is it a free-for-all. Instead, the city’s flow is a dance of local habits, informal schedules, and a bit of guesswork. You’ll quickly learn that timing here is flexible, and patience is part of the currency. Your choices between time, money, and comfort will shape how you experience this unique blend of order and chaos.

Walking: The most reliable and cost-free way to navigate Sandakan’s compact center. It’s slow but gives you full control over your schedule and lets you soak in the street-level details. Expect to cover 3-5 kilometers comfortably in under an hour.
Local Minibuses

… read more 👉

Sandakan moves at its own pace—somewhere between the laid-back rhythm of a small town and the unpredictable pulse of a frontier hub. It’s not a place where you’ll find strict timetables etched in stone, but neither is it a free-for-all. Instead, the city’s flow is a dance of local habits, informal schedules, and a bit of guesswork. You’ll quickly learn that timing here is flexible, and patience is part of the currency. Your choices between time, money, and comfort will shape how you experience this unique blend of order and chaos.

Walking: The most reliable and cost-free way to navigate Sandakan’s compact center. It’s slow but gives you full control over your schedule and lets you soak in the street-level details. Expect to cover 3-5 kilometers comfortably in under an hour.
Local Minibuses (Van Vans): These shared vans run on informal routes with no fixed schedule, departing when full. Fares hover around 2-3 MYR. They’re cheap and fairly quick for short hops but can be unpredictable in timing and comfort—expect crowded, no-frills rides.
Motorcycle Taxis (Ojek): Ideal for short distances when time is tight. Prices vary but usually start around 5 MYR. They offer speed and flexibility but sacrifice comfort and safety, especially if you’re carrying a backpack.
Regular Taxis: Metered taxis exist but are rare and often negotiated by fare rather than meter. Expect to pay 15-30 MYR for typical city trips. They provide comfort and direct routes but at a premium, especially if you’re traveling solo.
Boat Transfers: For trips to nearby islands or river tours, boats run on a semi-regular schedule, often coordinated by tour operators. Prices vary widely (20-50 MYR), and timing depends on demand. This option trades time and money for unique access and scenic value.

👛 Costs (as of 15 October 2026)Money, prices, and spending tips

Backpacking in Sandakan, Malaysia, offers a clear trade-off map between time, money, and comfort, with costs that lean toward the budget-friendly side but vary by season and style.

Dorm Accommodation (High Season): Expect to pay around $8 to $12 per night. High season pushes prices up slightly due to demand, but dorms remain basic and clean, often with shared bathrooms and simple amenities.
Dorm Accommodation (Off-Season): Prices drop to about $5 to $8 per night. Off-season means fewer tourists, so you can snag a bed in a decent hostel for less, though some places might reduce services or close.
Meals: Street food and local eateries dominate here. Budget around $3 to $6 per meal if you stick to local dishes like nasi lemak or seafood laksa. Western-style meals or dining in tourist spots

… read more 👉

Backpacking in Sandakan, Malaysia, offers a clear trade-off map between time, money, and comfort, with costs that lean toward the budget-friendly side but vary by season and style.

Dorm Accommodation (High Season): Expect to pay around $8 to $12 per night. High season pushes prices up slightly due to demand, but dorms remain basic and clean, often with shared bathrooms and simple amenities.
Dorm Accommodation (Off-Season): Prices drop to about $5 to $8 per night. Off-season means fewer tourists, so you can snag a bed in a decent hostel for less, though some places might reduce services or close.
Meals: Street food and local eateries dominate here. Budget around $3 to $6 per meal if you stick to local dishes like nasi lemak or seafood laksa. Western-style meals or dining in tourist spots can push that to $8 or more.
Local Transport: Sandakan’s local transport mainly involves minibusses and motorbike taxis. A typical short ride costs about $0.50 to $1.50. Renting a motorbike for the day runs around $8 to $12, offering flexibility but requiring confidence in local traffic.
City Transport Pass: Sandakan doesn’t have a formal city transport pass system. Budget travelers rely on pay-per-ride minibusses or taxis, so no fixed pass costs apply.
Basic Activities/Entry Fees: Entry to local attractions like the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre is around $15 to $20. Other nature parks or museums typically charge $5 to $10. Guided tours or boat trips can push daily activity costs higher, but independent visits keep it modest.
Miscellaneous Expenses: Think bottled water, snacks, occasional laundry, or small souvenirs. Set aside $2 to $5 daily for these small but necessary extras.

All told, a realistic daily budget for backpacking in Sandakan ranges from about $20 on the leanest days in off-season dorms with street food, up to $40 if you opt for more comfort, guided activities, or high-season prices. This range lets you decide how much comfort or adventure you want without surprises.

⚠️ Prices can change and everyone travels differently, so take this as a rough guide. Hope it helps you plan your adventure!

🚌 Day tripsShort trips worth adding

Sandakan, Malaysia, is a backpacker’s dream, offering a strategic base for unforgettable day trips. With a mix of wildlife, culture, and natural beauty, you can easily explore the region without the hassle of overnight stays.

Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre

Just a 30-minute ride from Sandakan, this center is a must-visit for animal lovers. Witness orangutans swinging through the trees during feeding times. The experience is both heartwarming and educational, showcasing conservation efforts. Budget around RM 30 for entry and transport. The best time to visit is in the morning when the animals are most active. A common mistake? Arriving too late and missing the feeding sessions.

Borneo Rainforest Lodge

A bit further afield, about an hour and a half from Sandakan, this lodge offers … read more 👉

Sandakan, Malaysia, is a backpacker’s dream, offering a strategic base for unforgettable day trips. With a mix of wildlife, culture, and natural beauty, you can easily explore the region without the hassle of overnight stays.

Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre

Just a 30-minute ride from Sandakan, this center is a must-visit for animal lovers. Witness orangutans swinging through the trees during feeding times. The experience is both heartwarming and educational, showcasing conservation efforts. Budget around RM 30 for entry and transport. The best time to visit is in the morning when the animals are most active. A common mistake? Arriving too late and missing the feeding sessions.

Borneo Rainforest Lodge

A bit further afield, about an hour and a half from Sandakan, this lodge offers guided treks through the lush rainforest. You’ll encounter diverse flora and fauna, including rare birds and insects. The cost for a day trip is around RM 150, including lunch and a guide. Aim for the dry season between March and October for the best experience. Many first-timers underestimate the need for sturdy footwear; the trails can be slippery!

Kinabatangan River Cruise

This is a two-hour journey from Sandakan, but the wildlife sightings make it worth every minute. A river cruise offers a chance to see proboscis monkeys, crocodiles, and even pygmy elephants. Expect to spend about RM 100 for a half-day tour. The early morning or late afternoon is prime time for spotting wildlife. Don’t forget your binoculars; many miss out on the best views because they forget to look up!

Turtle Island Park

About 40 minutes by boat, this park is famous for its turtle conservation efforts. Spend the day snorkeling or relaxing on the beach, and if you’re lucky, witness turtles nesting at night. A day trip will set you back around RM 200, including transport and park fees. The nesting season runs from May to September, so plan accordingly. A common error is not checking the boat schedule; it can be limited during off-peak times.

🍲 FoodEating & Drinking in Sandakan

In Sandakan, the food scene is a vibrant tapestry of flavors that beckons you to dive in. Start with Nasi Kandar, a rice dish served with a variety of curries and sides. The explosion of spices will dance on your palate. Don’t miss Soto, a fragrant soup filled with chicken or beef, perfect for a quick, hearty meal.

Street food is where the magic happens. Wander through bustling night markets where sizzling skewers of satay and crispy roti canai fill the air with mouthwatering aromas. Grab a seat on a plastic stool, and you’ll find yourself surrounded by locals, sharing laughter and stories over plates of food.

When it comes to drinks, try Teh Tarik, a frothy milk tea that’s a local favorite. The way it’s poured from one cup to another is an art form in itself. Embrace the casual dining etiquette: … read more 👉

In Sandakan, the food scene is a vibrant tapestry of flavors that beckons you to dive in. Start with Nasi Kandar, a rice dish served with a variety of curries and sides. The explosion of spices will dance on your palate. Don’t miss Soto, a fragrant soup filled with chicken or beef, perfect for a quick, hearty meal.

Street food is where the magic happens. Wander through bustling night markets where sizzling skewers of satay and crispy roti canai fill the air with mouthwatering aromas. Grab a seat on a plastic stool, and you’ll find yourself surrounded by locals, sharing laughter and stories over plates of food.

When it comes to drinks, try Teh Tarik, a frothy milk tea that’s a local favorite. The way it’s poured from one cup to another is an art form in itself. Embrace the casual dining etiquette: it’s all about sharing and enjoying the moment. In Sandakan, food isn’t just sustenance; it’s a communal experience that connects you to the heart of the city.

🛡️ SafetyTraveler Safety Guide

Sandakan is generally safe, but like any city, a little awareness goes a long way. Stick to well-lit areas at night, especially around the waterfront. Solo travelers should trust their instincts; if something feels off, it probably is.

While scams are rare, be cautious of overly friendly locals offering unsolicited help or guiding you to shops where they earn a commission. Always confirm prices upfront, especially for taxis or tours.

Annoyances can include persistent street vendors, but a polite “no, thank you” usually does the trick. Keep your belongings secure and avoid flashy displays of wealth. By staying alert and grounded, you can navigate Sandakan with ease and enjoy its unique charm.

Check Country Safety

FAQCommon questions from travelers

2 to 3 days are sufficient to explore Sandakan. This allows time to visit key attractions like the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre. Additional days can be spent on nearby islands or river tours.

Yes, Sandakan is generally safe for solo backpackers. Standard precautions like avoiding isolated areas at night and securing belongings apply. The local community is friendly, and tourist areas are well-patrolled.

Sandakan is known for its wildlife conservation centers, especially the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. It is also famous for its World War II history, including the Sandakan Memorial Park and the nearby WWII death march sites.

⚠️ Things can change over time, so always validate details locally before you go.

Other Malaysian cities near Sandakan

Explore more nearby:

Lahad Datu—palm oil estates, wildlife corridor, gateway to Danum| 94 km away
Kota Kinabalu—seafront sunsets, island ferries, mountain backdrop| 226 km away
Miri—oil heritage, coastal parks, gateway to caves| 485 km away

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We 💚 feedbackFinal thoughts on visiting Sandakan

Sandakan is a gateway to Borneo’s wild heart, where you can witness orangutans in their natural habitat. That’s a bucket-list experience right there. But be ready for the humidity and occasional downpours; it can be relentless. Embrace the sweat and the rain, though. It’s all part of the adventure, and the rewards are worth every drop.

✈️ When did I visit Malaysia?
As part of my 1.5 year travel around the world trip, I visited Malaysia in January 2016.

✍️ Help improve this page!
The information on this page is based on my own backpacking experience in Malaysia, supplemented with up-to-date research and feedback from other travelers. Travel details can change, so if you notice anything outdated or incomplete, feel free to let me know.

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👋 Meet the founderWho’s Behind Take Your Backpack?

Johan, backpacker and founder of TakeYourBackpack

Hi, I’m Johan (Netherlands 🇳🇱), the creator of TakeYourBackpack. Over the past 3 decades, I’ve backpacked through 90+ countries across six continents, gaining extensive experience with independent travel, long-term trips, and overland routes.

This site is built on a combination of firsthand travel experience and carefully curated insights from other backpackers. Many guides are based on places I’ve personally visited, while others bring together tips, observations, and practical advice shared by trusted travelers I’ve met along the way.

The goal is to provide realistic, experience-driven guidance — not generic itineraries — so you can explore destinations with better context, clearer expectations, and more confidence.

Read the full story

Malaysia🇲🇾 | citiesSandakanorangutan sanctuary, WWII memorials, seafood markets | things to do and best time to go

Backpacking in Sandakan
👍 Recommendedcity ranked #12
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated October 15, 2026

✨ Why go?
Ranked #12 city in MalaysiaThe unique appeal for travelers

💡 HighlightsDon't-miss highlights and experiences

Things to do in Sandakan

Borneo Wildlife Tour 3 Days 2 Nights At Tanjung Bulat Jungle Camp Kinabatangan

Private Full Day Sepilok Orang Utan, Bornean Sun Bear and Rainforest Discovery Center Tour

Borneo Wildlife Tour 2 Days 1 Night At Tanjung Bulat Jungle Camp Kinabatangan

Mangrove Cruise with Fireflies Tour Including Dinner from Sandakan

Kinabatangan River Cruise from Sandakan

Full Day Orang Utan Sepilok, Proboscis Monkey, Sunbear, RDC

Labuk Proboscis, Sepilok, Sun Bear, Sandakan City Tour & Lunch

Day Trip Sepilok Orang Utan & Proboscis Monkey (Flight Excluded)

Private Tour: Half Day Sandakan City Tour Including Local Lunch

2D1N Sandakan Private Tour with Kinabatangan River Cruise

🏘️ NeighborhoodsUnderstanding the local layout

⌛️ 1 dayHow to make the most of one day

🌤️ When to go?Weather, crowds, and seasonal trade-offs

✈️ The backpacker research shortcutMalaysia Travel Guide

🛏️ Where to stay?Best areas and accommodation options

🚌 Getting aroundMoving around without the hassle

👛 Costs (as of 15 October 2026)Money, prices, and spending tips

🚌 Day tripsShort trips worth adding

🍲 FoodEating & Drinking in Sandakan

🛡️ SafetyTraveler Safety Guide

FAQCommon questions from travelers

Other Malaysian cities near Sandakan

We 💚 feedbackFinal thoughts on visiting Sandakan

👋 Meet the founderWho’s Behind Take Your Backpack?

Malaysia🇲🇾 | citiesSandakanorangutan sanctuary, WWII memorials, seafood markets | things to do and best time to go

Backpacking in Sandakan👍 Recommendedcity ranked #12By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated October 15, 2026addMaskedRevealAnimation('6adba996121ec')

✨ Why go?Ranked #12 city in MalaysiaaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6adba996132e3')The unique appeal for travelersaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6adba996132eb')

💡 HighlightsaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6adba9961461a')Don't-miss highlights and experiencesaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6adba99614623')

Things to do in Sandakan

Borneo Wildlife Tour 3 Days 2 Nights At Tanjung Bulat Jungle Camp Kinabatangan

Private Full Day Sepilok Orang Utan, Bornean Sun Bear and Rainforest Discovery Center Tour

Borneo Wildlife Tour 2 Days 1 Night At Tanjung Bulat Jungle Camp Kinabatangan

Mangrove Cruise with Fireflies Tour Including Dinner from Sandakan

Kinabatangan River Cruise from Sandakan

Full Day Orang Utan Sepilok, Proboscis Monkey, Sunbear, RDC

Labuk Proboscis, Sepilok, Sun Bear, Sandakan City Tour & Lunch

Day Trip Sepilok Orang Utan & Proboscis Monkey (Flight Excluded)

Private Tour: Half Day Sandakan City Tour Including Local Lunch

2D1N Sandakan Private Tour with Kinabatangan River Cruise

🏘️ NeighborhoodsaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6adba99614e67')Understanding the local layoutaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6adba99614e6f')

⌛️ 1 dayaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6adba99615be0')How to make the most of one dayaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6adba99615beb')

🌤️ When to go?addMaskedRevealAnimation('6adba99616932')Weather, crowds, and seasonal trade-offsaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6adba9961693a')

✈️ The backpacker research shortcutMalaysia Travel Guide

🛏️ Where to stay?addMaskedRevealAnimation('6adba996178b6')Best areas and accommodation optionsaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6adba996178c0')

🚌 Getting aroundaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6adba99618627')Moving around without the hassleaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6adba99618632')

👛 Costs (as of 15 October 2026)addMaskedRevealAnimation('6adba99619526')Money, prices, and spending tipsaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6adba99619530')

🚌 Day tripsaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6adba9962ed07')Short trips worth addingaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6adba9962ed13')

🍲 FoodaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6adba9962f6ff')Eating & Drinking in SandakanaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6adba9962f708')

🛡️ SafetyaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6adba9962f98d')Traveler Safety GuideaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6adba9962f994')

FAQaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6adba9962fa50')Common questions from travelersaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6adba9962fa58')

Other Malaysian cities near SandakanaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6adba99633cf9')

We 💚 feedbackaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6adba99633ec5')Final thoughts on visiting SandakanaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6adba99633ecb')

👋 Meet the founderaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6adba99633f27')Who’s Behind Take Your Backpack?addMaskedRevealAnimation('6adba99633f2c')

Backpacking in Sandakan
👍 Recommendedcity ranked #12
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated October 15, 2026

✨ Why go?
Ranked #12 city in MalaysiaThe unique appeal for travelers

💡 HighlightsDon't-miss highlights and experiences

🏘️ NeighborhoodsUnderstanding the local layout

⌛️ 1 dayHow to make the most of one day

🌤️ When to go?Weather, crowds, and seasonal trade-offs

🛏️ Where to stay?Best areas and accommodation options

🚌 Getting aroundMoving around without the hassle

👛 Costs (as of 15 October 2026)Money, prices, and spending tips

🚌 Day tripsShort trips worth adding

🍲 FoodEating & Drinking in Sandakan

🛡️ SafetyTraveler Safety Guide

FAQCommon questions from travelers

Other Malaysian cities near Sandakan

We 💚 feedbackFinal thoughts on visiting Sandakan

👋 Meet the founderWho’s Behind Take Your Backpack?